Hobbiton

Hobbiton Movie Set: Step Into Middle-earth in New Zealand

Hobbiton, located in Matamata on New Zealand’s North Island, is one of the most iconic and enchanting filming locations from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. With its lush green hills, whimsical hobbit holes, and real-life Green Dragon Inn, Hobbiton offers fans a truly magical experience in the heart of the Waikato countryside.

📍 Where Is Hobbiton?

The Hobbiton Movie Set is located in Matamata, about 2 hours south of Auckland or 1 hour from Rotorua. The region is known for its rolling green farmland, which made it a perfect stand-in for the Shire.

🎬 A Brief History

The original Hobbiton set was built in 1999 for The Lord of the Rings trilogy but was dismantled after filming. When The Hobbit films began production in 2009, the set was rebuilt permanently with more durable materials, and it has been open to visitors ever since.

🧙‍♂️ What to Expect on the Tour

• Guided walking tours (approx. 2 hours) through the lush 12-acre set
• 44 hobbit holes with charming details and colorful doors
• Bag End – the home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins
• Party Tree and Green Dragon Inn – enjoy a complimentary Hobbit Southfarthing ale or ginger beer
• Expert commentary on film trivia, set design, and behind-the-scenes facts

📸 Photography Tips

• Bring a wide-angle lens for capturing the sweeping Shire landscape
• Photograph early in the tour for soft lighting (early morning and late afternoon are best)
• Many tours include free time for individual photos at select hobbit holes

🍽️ Dining & Special Experiences

• The Green Dragon Inn: Enjoy rustic food and drinks in a perfectly recreated Middle-earth tavern
• Evening Banquet Tours: Start with a guided tour at dusk followed by a full Hobbit-style banquet by firelight
• Second Breakfast Tour: A morning tour capped off with a hearty hobbit breakfast

🎟️ Tickets & Tours

Prices:

• Standard Hobbiton Tour: ~NZD $120 for adults, NZD $60 for children (9–16), under 8s free
• Evening Banquet Tour: ~NZD $199 for adults
• Private Tours and Group Bookings available

Booking Tip: Tours often sell out in advance—book early via the official Hobbiton website or a trusted reseller.

🚗 How to Get There

• From Auckland: 2-hour drive via SH1 and SH27
• From Rotorua: 1-hour drive west via SH5
• Shuttles and day tours: Available from Auckland, Rotorua, Hamilton, and Tauranga

🛏️ Where to Stay

• Matamata: Closest town with motels, farm stays, and B&Bs
• Rotorua: Offers more accommodation and geothermal attractions—good for combo trips
• Hamilton: Another great nearby base for touring the Waikato region

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

• Spring (Sept–Nov): Lush landscapes and blooming flowers
• Summer (Dec–Feb): Most popular season with clear skies and extended daylight
• Fall (Mar–May): Fewer crowds and beautiful golden light

🧳 What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera or phone with plenty of battery
• Sunscreen and a hat (shade is limited)
• Light jacket or raincoat (weather can shift quickly)

💡 Insider Tips

• Arrive early—shuttles depart from The Shire’s Rest cafe
• The Evening Banquet Tour is highly recommended for fans wanting a more immersive experience
• Combine with nearby activities like the Waitomo Glowworm Caves or Rotorua’s geothermal parks

📌 Quick Info Summary